Mapperton Gardens
One of the loveliest stately homes in Dorset, where ancient, rolling countryside tumbles into the golden stone wall formality of the Italianate garden and Elizabethan manor house. It’s the lushest of spots and children love it too. After the more formal bits, they can whizz around the “wild” part of the garden as it descends into a hidden Dorset combe. They might even bump into the lord and lady of the manor, the Earl and Countess of Sandwich. Indian runner ducks and bantams patrol the estate while families enjoy picnics in the car park or wander around the gift shop, with its Fairtrade global products, locally-made items and plants grown in the garden. Lunches and teas are also served at the Sawmill Café.